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Mark Harmon played the role of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs to perfection in theJAGspin-off series. The actor portrayed the role for 19 seasons, establishing himself as a central part of the show.
However, what mostNCISfans don’t know is that there were several other actors who the creators were considering for that role. Notable names like Harrison Ford, Alec Baldwin, Clive Owen, and even Charlie Sheen were contemplated for the character. Harmon too initially wanted to reject the role until one thing made him accept the offer.
What’s in a name?: Mark Harmon changed his mind
The military police procedural TV series,NCISmanaged to captivate the audience with its unique concept and garnered substantial success. After the positive response from the initial seasons, the show soon became one of the most-watched TV series.
Harrison Ford Almost Stole Mark Harmon’s Lead Role in NCIS After Being Forced To Take the Series Due To Not Finding Any Work
Mark Harmonportrayed the memorable character of the Special Agent in Charge Leroy Jethro Gibbs. The actor became a fan favorite and was a part of the show for 19 consecutive seasons until his exit in 2022.
However, theFreaky Fridayactor confessed during his interview withETthat he was hesitant about the role at first. Harmon explained that he wanted to devote his time to his family when he was first offered the script.
I didn’t expect to like the script as much as I did when I first read it. I was reading other things and I was also trying to stay home — young family and I wanted to try and be home more.
But he unexpectedly loved the plot and the role he was being offered, but that wasn’t what sealed the deal. ThePrince of Bel Airactor revealed that he was fascinated by his onscreen character’s name and wanted to say yes.
I read ‘Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ and thought, ‘Huh, I like that name’. And then for a brief second when I decided that I liked the idea of the project, the name changed.
In a bizarre twist of fate, the actor was disappointed to learn that the show makers wanted to change his character’s name. Fortunately, he spoke up about his preference for the unique name, and his voice was heard by the writer.
Potential candidates: What if? scenarios
Other thanThe West Wingactor, the creators had several prominent actors in mind for the iconic role. CBS’s longest-running primetime series could have hadHarrison Fordon board if Harmon rejected the offer.
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Charles Floyd Johnson,JAG, andNCIS‘s executive producer revealed the shocking details about earlier casting choices. Johnson recalled that alongside several talented actors, theK-19: The Widowmakeractor made the top of the list (via The Hollywood Reporter).
I know Harrison Ford was a name that everybody thought about for Gibbs because he was so perfect. But I don’t think it ever got further than, it was a name thrown out.
The show’s casting director, Susan Bluestein then expanded on the conversation stating that she didn’t recall Ford’s name being considered. Instead, she listed other celebrated actors who fit their bill at the time.
I don’t remember Harrison Ford. There were names like Alec Baldwin, Chris Cooper, Clive Owen, Kevin Bacon, Tom Berenger, Val Kilmer, Charlie Sheen, Aidan Quinn, Patrick Swayze. We did not make offers to those people. We just investigated.
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It’s astonishing to think thatAlec BaldwinorVal Kilmercould have played the iconic role. EvenCharlie Sheenwas being considered, who had already cemented his credibility as an actor on the big screen.
Fortunately, Sheen got the chance to showcase his prowess on the small screen in other shows likeSpin CityandTwo and a Half Men. Fans truly couldn’t envision any other actor playing the role Harmon so successfully delivered.
NCISis currently available to watch on Paramount+.
Shruti Pathak
Articles Published :286
An entertainment writer with a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, Shruti Pathak is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in English. She is also a devoted poetry enthusiast, exploring the beauty of language and emotion through verse. Obsessed with the show Friends, a self-proclaimed swiftie, and inspired by classical literature these are just some characteristics that describe the novice writer. Newly joining FandomWire as an intern writer, she hopes to share her thoughts while sharpening her writing skills on various entertainment topics.
